Few words can describe the devastation experienced by the violence that spanned all parts of our metro St. Louis area this weekend. Additionally, in Buffalo, New York, this past Saturday, we tragically lost ten human beings.
I am deeply saddened and troubled by racially motivated acts of violence and recognize the effect this news has on our students—particularly our students of color. No one should have to live in fear that they will be violently targeted when conducting daily activities.
I want to be clear: Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing will always take a bold stance against racism and bias.
Whether you are Goldfarb faculty, staff or student, you’ve chosen to pursue or support a career at the heart of healthcare. I am reminded of a quote by Joanne Disch, Past President, AARP, American Academy of Nursing, when she says, “The nursing lens . . .is not simply a matter of parity. . . It’s a matter of perspective. Without the nurses’ voices and nursing lens, needed change cannot occur.” We have a special calling. With over 4 million nurses in the U.S. alone, there’s power in our voice—let’s commit to using our voice to break the culture of silence and indifference and strengthen our communities.
As we heal, I ask that we all continue to work toward peace, respect and understanding and initiate supportive dialogue. As a Goldfarb community, we will work to foster a safe place whereby students, faculty and staff feel empowered to share their thoughts and experiences.
We owe it to each other to rally together during our highest highs and our lowest lows. This is the essence of a nurse. This is who we are as a College.
In Solidarity,
Dr. Clark
